Although nowadays, better second-hand stores pay attention to cleanliness and disinfection of items, it’s still a good idea to give them special attention before wearing them for the first time. Clothing from some stores may contain dust, bacteria, fragrance residues, or chemicals from previous use.
Tips for Washing Second-hand Clothing
1. Pre-soaking to remove odours
If the clothing has a strong odour, soak it for several hours in water with a cup of vinegar (approximately 1 cup of vinegar per 5 liters of water). Vinegar neutralizes odours and removes bacteria.
2. Use a gentle detergent
Choose a detergent based on the type of fabric. If the material is unknown, which is common with second-hand clothing, you can use a universal detergent. For delicate fabrics like silk or wool, always opt for specialized products.
For a more noticeable fragrance, add laundry perfume.
3. Choose the right water temperature
For cotton and durable materials, a temperature of 40–60°C is ideal, as it helps eliminate bacteria. For delicate fabrics, wash at lower temperatures (30–40°C) to prevent damage.
4. Fabric disinfection
For added peace of mind, you can use specialized laundry disinfectants that are safe for fabrics and effective against bacteria or mould.
5. Thorough rinsing
After washing, choose a double rinse cycle to remove any remaining detergent and disinfectant residues.
6. Keep the scent lasting longer
To maintain the fragrance of your clothes, store them in the wardrobe with scented tags.